
The United States suspended all military aid to Ukraine after a contentious summit between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House. The move is stopping more than $1 billion in weapons and ammunition bound for Ukraine, as well as some weapons already on their way or in transit hangars in Poland.
The suspension is designed to put pressure on Kyiv to negotiate peace with Russia. President Trump clarified that the suspension depends on Ukraine showing a serious commitment to peace talks. According to reports, President Trump told President Zelenskyy to "come back when he is ready for peace," in an expression of frustration with Ukraine's position regarding the conflict.
The Oval Office discussion between the two leaders became heated, with President Trump frustrated by what he saw as ingratitude on the part of President Zelenskyy for U.S. assistance. The Ukrainian president's comments about the far-off possibility of peace only heightened tensions, and the meeting was sharply cut short, along with a scheduled working lunch and signing ceremony on a minerals accord.
This move has caused alarm among European allies and Ukraine's supporters, who worry that suspending aid would extend the war instead of leading to peace. The suspension of military aid might weaken Ukraine's defense capabilities in the long run, possibly impacting its strategy and operations against Russian forces.
The move also affects international markets, with oil prices falling. The suspension of military aid is seen by some analysts as a possible de-escalation of hostilities, which could result in sanctions relief for Russia and a rise in oil supply. Brent futures fell 0.75% to $71.08 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate declined 0.53% to $68.01.